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Published on: December 3, 2016
FGF and ROR2 receptor tyrosine kinase signaling in human skeletal development
Sigmar Stricker1, Stefan Mundlos
1Development and Disease Group, Max Planck-Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany.
Abstract:
Skeletal malformations are among the most frequent developmental disturbances in humans. In the past years, progress has been made in unraveling the molecular mechanisms that govern skeletal development by the use of animal models as well as by the identification of numerous mutations that cause human skeletal syndromes. Receptor tyrosine kinases have critical roles in embryonic development. During formation of the skeletal system, the fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) family plays major roles in the formation of cranial, axial, and appendicular bones. Another player of relevance to skeletal development is the unusual receptor tyrosine kinase ROR2, the function of which is as interesting as it is complex. In this chapter, we review the involvement of FGFR signaling in human skeletal disease and provide an update on the growing knowledge of ROR2.
Insights
Skeletal malformations are common human developmental issues. This review details the roles of fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) and ROR2 tyrosine kinase in skeletal development and disease.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Skeletal malformations are frequent human developmental disturbances.
- Receptor tyrosine kinases are crucial for embryonic development.
- Fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) and ROR2 are key players in skeletal formation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the involvement of FGFR signaling in human skeletal diseases.
- To provide an update on the knowledge of ROR2 in skeletal development.
Main Methods:
- Review of scientific literature.
- Analysis of animal models for skeletal development.
- Identification of mutations causing human skeletal syndromes.
Main Results:
- FGFR signaling is critical for cranial, axial, and appendicular bone formation.
- ROR2 tyrosine kinase has a complex and significant role in skeletal development.
Conclusions:
- Understanding FGFR and ROR2 pathways is vital for addressing skeletal malformations.
- Further research into these receptor tyrosine kinases will advance the treatment of skeletal disorders.
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